Mont Blanc Final Training – Tester Summit High on the Ice

For the past 2 days we have been up high at the other end of the valley to our goal Mont Blanc. Why? To test our skills and acclimatise. On the first day we trekked up to the Albert Premier Hut from the town of Le Tour..

As you approach the hut you are also met with the spectacular glacier running down beside it from above. There are worse places in the world to stay. In face the sunset we received as we looked out over the mountains was incredible.

The first afternoon was spent on the glacier, rope, cravasse escape and crampon training. Getting more technical as we moved along.

The next day was the early start. The sun arose without clouds for us too and we set off up, over the ice towards the summit of Petit Fourche. So far away from any hustle and bustle, surrounded by white ice and blue skies. Step after step looking around realising again how small we are!

The slopes got steeper, the heights got higher but onwards we climbed to the foot of the peak. This is where a lot of the technical training came to the fore. All roped up, ice axes digging in the steep upward slope ascended there was a final rocky scarmble to the summit. Phew! Sit, relax and look down and around over the alps and beyond. Great mountains could be seen all around, the Matterhorn for example.

Alas it was time to get off and climb back down. All roped up in line we had all achieved our goal for the day and seen great things. Exodus really do make sure you are fully prepared and guided. These last 3 days we have been excellently encouraging and a great experience.

Tonight we rest, as from tomorrow we have the 2 day attempt of Mont Blanc itself… The highest mountain in Western Europe. Head down and focus!

About The Author

Founder of BaldHiker.com and avid hiker, climber and trekker. Never liking to sit still and always seeking new adventures around the world. Sharing personal views here and tweeting live via @paul_steele